2013 NBA Season: Can the Phoenix Suns Make the Playoffs?
With the sign and trade of Steve Nash to the Lakers, the Suns lost the face of their franchise. The Suns have been criticized over and over again for not attempting to build a contender around Nash. However, they seemed to try and atone for their mistakes by making several key moves this postseason.
First, they signed Goran Dragic, who was once seen as the successor to Nash's dynasty before he was traded to the Rockets for Aaron Brooks. Now, he has returned to Phoenix and should assume the starting point guard spot, which will be in the Suns favor because Kendall Marshall will need some time to grow into his role and adjust to the NBA game.
In the game today, there is almost nothing more important than strong point guard play, and the addition of Goran Dragic keeps the Suns relevant.
Second, they went and signed Michael Beasley, who despite any off court issues, is still a good scorer from a forward slot. Grant Hill did an admirable job the last few years, but Beasley has a higher ceiling as of now.
Wesley Johnson also came from the Timberwolves in a trade. He has all of the athletic tools to succeed. He has also been a decent shooter, although he did regress in the 2011-12 NBA season. The Suns will look to have an up tempo offense, and if Wesley Johnson does what he does best, namely, attacking the basket from off ball cuts, he should help Phoenix tremendously from the small forward spot.
The Timberwolves underutilized him horribly in that regard and tried to force him to become something he's not. Playing with the Suns will likely allow him to use his talents more effectively than he did in Minnesota.
The claiming of Luis Scola was a smart decision that came from the risky strategy of Darryl Morey. Scola has shown in the past that he is a very good player offensively. He has a developed postgame and will get his points. Not only that, but he has had a strong Olympics, and many players have come back from the Olympics to have career years.
Although he is a little past his prime to have a career year, a strong year will be all the Suns need from him.
As of now, the Suns roster will be looking to score first and play defense later. The Suns have done a good job with assembling pieces in a way so that there is a plan in mind. In the Western Conference, having some offensive firepower goes a long way, and with this offense, the Suns are actually strong contenders for one of the bottom two spots in the playoffs.
